Allen: I know what I need to do

Joe Allen has reiterated his determination to recapture his best form after conceding he has been disappointed with his recent performances.

The midfielder, who is with the Wales squad for their friendly with Austria on Wednesday night, has been named on the bench for Liverpool's last three Barclays Premier League matches having made a bright start to his Anfield career following a summer switch from Swansea City.

However, Allen believes continuing to work hard on the Melwood training pitches will help him get back to his best.

The 22-year-old said: "I want to improve aspects of my game. I'm a perfectionist and maybe that's part of my problem.

"Sometimes I get frustrated and disappointed when things aren't perfect.

"Everyone knows my form hasn't been great. That goes without saying. It's been disappointing not to have been involved in every game.

"But it's up to me to work hard and get myself back in the team and improve my level of performance.

"It happens to everyone in football. We have highs and lows. But I'm excited and looking forward to turning that around at some stage in the near future.

"It started well for me at Liverpool. In terms of settling in, that hasn't been a problem. The club is fantastic from that point of view.

"There's no magic formula or reason why I haven't been playing well. It's just happened and I'm sure that will change."

Just gotta keep working hard I guess. However, BR isnt going to change the starting 11 presently, so opportunities likely to be very limited- probably Zenit away. Get back to the form of Man City at home- cos you were superb that day. This is Liverpool however, and no room for passengers....